Sidebottom would love IPL appearance

England bowler Ryan Sidebottom admits he would love the chance to play in the Indian Premier League.

The star-studded Twenty20 tournament, which begins later this month, has captured the imagination of cricket fans across the world.

India's Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Australian legends Shane Warne and Adam Gilchrist are among the household names taking part, but the England and Wales Cricket Board insist no centrally-contracted players would be allowed to play.

Despite the ECB's stance Sidebottom, the star of England's recent Test series win in New Zealand, is keen to get a taste of the new league.

"If there is a window for the IPL then I would love to play in it, of course," he told BBC Radio Five Live.

"It's down to England and I'm contracted to them. "The calendar is very hectic and to play for England you represent your country and I'm concentrating on that."

England batsman Alastair Cook also believes the IPL is good for the development of the game and is convinced his country will eventually let stars like Sidebottom and Kevin Pietersen play in the competition.

"Issues will be sorted out as to when England players could play in it and if the opportunity arrives to play in it I'm sure people will play," Cook said.